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Nash slams IAC over treatment of archaeologists

3 July 2018

Statement by Ged Nash TD
Spokesperson on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform

Labour’s Employment Spokesperson Senator Ged Nash has slammed the Irish Archaeological Consultancy over its treatment of skilled archaeologists who are set to take strike action at the Macroom by-pass site tomorrow (Wednesday, 4th July).

The workers who are members of Unite trade union are taking action in protest at the employers refusal to engage with the union directly or under the auspices of the WRC in relation to an outstanding pay claim.

Senator Nash said:

“This company is in receipt of significant public funds through public projects such as the Macroom by-pass.

“At the same time the State turns a blind eye as the firm, whose revenue is growing at approximately 20% per annum, plays a game of cat and mouse with Unite and refuses to entertain the prospect of discussions to resolve the pay claim issue under the State’s industrial relations machinery.

“It is extremely concerning that notices have been issued to workers by the company in advance of strike action being taken. The union has described this, in correspondence to TDs and Senators as ‘at best, an extreme coincidence and, at worst, an example of blatant union-busting tactics.’

“IAC must show respect to their workers, many of whom hold postgraduate qualifications and have considerable experience yet are expected to live on just €12.50 an hour.

“The firm must engage with the union and Minister Ross and his government colleagues must make it clear that companies in receipt of State contracts must be expected to engage with our industrial relations institutions to resolve workplace relations issues.”